SMOE Program Korea: Teach English in Seoul Public Schools

Dreaming of living and teaching in the heart of Korea’s capital? The SMOE Program might be your perfect launchpad.

SMOE stands for the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, and it's a public school program that places English teachers directly into schools across Seoul’s 25 districts. It's a popular option for teachers who want to experience life in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities — with its mix of K-pop culture, ancient temples, skyscrapers, cafés, and everything in between.

SMOE is part of the broader EPIK Program — so you apply through EPIK but request Seoul as your preferred location. If accepted, you’ll join a select group of teachers placed in elementary schools throughout the city, teaching Korean students the basics of English communication and helping to foster cross-cultural exchange.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the SMOE Program: how it works, what the benefits are, who can apply, and how to get started on your own teaching journey in Seoul.

What Is the SMOE Program?

The SMOE Program (Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education) is a government-run initiative that places native English teachers into public elementary schools throughout Seoul. It’s one of the most sought-after programs in Korea — thanks to its location, structured support, and vibrant lifestyle.

SMOE is technically part of the EPIK Program, which means:

• You apply through the standard EPIK application form
• You’ll need to indicate that you are requesting placement in Seoul
• If accepted, you'll be placed in one of Seoul’s 25 districts (known as gu)

🏫 Elementary School Focus

While EPIK places teachers in elementary, middle, and high schools across the country, SMOE focuses almost exclusively on elementary schools (grades 3–6). These positions are ideal for:

• Teachers who enjoy working with younger children
• First-time ESL teachers looking for structured support
• Educators who want to build a strong foundation in the classroom

📍 Random Placement Within Seoul

Unlike GEPIK or GOE, SMOE doesn’t let you choose your school or district. Once accepted:

• You’ll be placed randomly in one of Seoul’s districts
• Preferences are considered but not guaranteed
• Placements are confirmed after you submit your final documents

Think of SMOE as your chance to live at the center of Korea’s culture, energy, and innovation — while teaching in stable, government-supported schools with great benefits.

Next: Why so many ESL teachers aim for SMOE, and what makes it unique.

Why Teach with SMOE?

For many ESL teachers, Seoul is the dream destination — and SMOE is your ticket to getting there.

Teaching through the SMOE Program means living and working in one of the most vibrant, modern, and culturally rich cities in Asia. From high-tech districts and buzzing night markets to quiet traditional neighborhoods and hidden temples, Seoul offers something for everyone.

🏙️ Live and Work in the Capital

• Be based in Seoul, Korea’s political, cultural, and entertainment hub
• Explore art museums, palaces, cafes, festivals, and nightlife
• Enjoy global cuisine, high-speed transport, and endless things to do
• Join a large and active expat and English teacher community

🎒 Focus on Elementary Education

• Most SMOE placements are in grades 3 to 6
• Teach foundational English in a fun, interactive way
• Ideal for those who enjoy working with younger students

🧑‍🏫 Great for First-Time Teachers

• No teaching experience required
• Strong orientation program (9 days, fully covered)
• Get support from co-teachers and staff while adjusting to life in Korea

🪩 A Truly Global City

• Seoul is one of the most international cities in East Asia
• It’s a hotspot for digital nomads, creatives, food lovers, and travelers
• Great base for exploring other parts of Korea — or flying to Japan, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia

🛡️ EPIK Backup Option

• If you're not accepted into SMOE, your application is automatically considered for EPIK placements elsewhere in Korea
• This gives you a second chance to teach through a stable public school program

Whether you're looking for K-pop concerts, hiking trails, late-night eats, or a polished teaching experience, SMOE gives you the chance to live at the heart of it all.

Next up: What you’ll earn and the benefits included with a SMOE contract.

SMOE Salary & Benefits

While Seoul is one of the most competitive locations for ESL teachers in Korea, SMOE offers a solid public school benefits package, with plenty of perks to support your move and stay in the city.

Here’s what you can expect when you sign a 1-year contract through the SMOE Program:

💰 Monthly Salary

• Starting salary: ₩1.8M – ₩2.7M KRW/month (~$1,350 – $2,025 USD)
• Your exact salary depends on your education, TEFL certification, and experience
• Teachers with higher qualifications or public school experience may enter at a higher pay grade

🏠 Free Housing or Allowance

• Most teachers are provided with a furnished single apartment
• If housing isn’t provided, you’ll receive a ₩500,000/month housing allowance
• Utilities and key money (deposit) may be your responsibility

✈️ Flight Reimbursement

• ₩1.3M KRW reimbursement for your flight to Korea
• Another ₩1.3M KRW for your return flight after completing your contract
• Paid after arrival (inbound) and after departure (outbound, with proof)

🧳 Settlement & Severance

• ₩300,000 KRW settlement allowance to help with moving expenses (first-time teachers only)
• 1-month severance bonus paid after each completed 1-year contract

📅 Paid Time Off

• 21 paid vacation days per year (plus Korean public holidays)
• Vacation is usually taken during summer and winter breaks
• 11 paid sick days per year (doctor’s note required for multiple days)

🏥 Health Insurance & Pension

• Enrolled in Korean National Health Insurance (50/50 split with employer)
• Includes medical, vision, and dental coverage
• National pension contributions, which are refundable for citizens of certain countries (e.g., U.S. and Canada)

🏫 Orientation

• 9-day orientation fully covered (meals, housing, and training provided)
• Learn about Korean culture, education system, and classroom expectations
• Great chance to meet other teachers before placement

SMOE combines the structure and benefits of a government-backed program with the energy and lifestyle of Seoul — giving you the best of both worlds.

Next: What a typical workweek looks like and what to expect inside the classroom.

Work Schedule & Teaching Load

Teaching through SMOE means you’ll enjoy a steady weekday schedule, with time for lesson planning, classroom creativity, and exploring everything Seoul has to offer once school is out.

🕒 Weekly Schedule

• Work hours: Monday–Friday, 8:40 AM – 4:40 PM
• No weekends, late nights, or split shifts
• All national holidays off, plus paid vacation days

📚 Teaching Hours

• Teach up to 22 hours per week
• Remaining hours are desk time used for:
  • Lesson planning
  • Grading
  • Team meetings
  • School events

👩‍🏫 What You’ll Be Teaching

• Most placements are in elementary schools (Grades 3–6)
• You’ll focus on:
  • Phonics and basic vocabulary
  • Pronunciation and conversation
  • Cultural lessons and creative activities

🤝 Co-Teaching Setup

• SMOE uses a co-teaching model
• You’ll work alongside a Korean English teacher (JTE)
• Responsibilities vary by school but often include:
  • Leading speaking activities
  • Assisting with lesson delivery
  • Supporting classroom management
  • Occasionally teaching solo classes

👧👦 Classroom Culture

• Class sizes usually range from 20–30 students
• Expect energetic and curious kids, especially in younger grades
• Schools often include cultural events, sports days, talent shows, and more — all great chances to get involved

SMOE offers a great balance between structured teaching time and opportunities to build your creativity and confidence in the classroom — especially if you’re just starting out.

Next: Do you meet the requirements? Let’s go over eligibility.

SMOE Eligibility & Requirements

To teach with SMOE, you’ll need to meet the same basic qualifications as other EPIK applicants — but with Seoul as your preferred location.

If you’re a native English speaker with a degree and a TEFL certificate, you're likely already eligible.

🌍 Nationality

You must be a citizen of one of these seven English-speaking countries:

• United States
• Canada
• United Kingdom
• Ireland
• Australia
• New Zealand
• South Africa

Canadian applicants from Quebec must provide proof of English-language education from junior high onward.

🎓 Education Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in any major from an accredited university
• Final-year students may apply but must graduate before the start date

📜 TEFL/TESOL/CELTA Certification

• Required if your degree is not in Education or English
• Must be 100+ hours
• Online certificates are accepted (in-person or practicum hours are a plus)
• Programs from accredited providers are recommended

🕵️‍♂️ Criminal Record Check

• Must provide a clean national-level background check
• Background check must be apostilled (or notarized and verified)
• Even minor misdemeanors can disqualify applicants

❤️ Health & Age

• Must be in good physical and mental health
• A self-health declaration is submitted during the application
• Age limit: under 62 years old (Korean retirement age)

📝 EPIK + SMOE Application Process

• You’ll apply through the EPIK application portal
• Submit a SMOE-specific attachment form with your documents
• If accepted into SMOE, you’ll be randomly placed in a district within Seoul
• If not accepted, your application is automatically considered for general EPIK placements

If you’re passionate about teaching, have a TEFL certificate, and want to live in Seoul, you’re already on the right path. No teaching experience is required — just energy, curiosity, and commitment.

Next: Let’s walk through the application and placement timeline.

Application Process & Timeline

To apply for the SMOE Program, you’ll go through the EPIK application system with a few extra steps. It’s a competitive program — but with the right preparation, you’ll be ready to apply confidently and early.

📝 Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Apply through EPIK

   • Complete the EPIK application form
   • Indicate Seoul (SMOE) as your preferred location
   • Include the SMOE attachment form along with your application

2. Submit Initial Documents

   • Resume and personal essay
   • TEFL certificate (or proof of enrollment)
   • Degree (or letter of expected graduation)
   • Passport scan
   • Letters of recommendation

3. Interview with EPIK

   • Typically conducted via Zoom or Skype
   • You’ll be asked about your motivation, teaching ideas, and cultural awareness

4. Conditional Acceptance to SMOE

   • If you pass the interview, you may be conditionally accepted into SMOE
   • If SMOE is full, you’ll still be considered for general EPIK placements

5. Submit Final Documents

   • Apostilled degree
   • Apostilled criminal background check
   • Final TEFL certificate
   • Sealed university transcripts
   • Signed contract and medical check form

6. Receive Notice of Appointment (NOA)

   • Once placement is confirmed, you’ll get your official contract
   • Use this to apply for an E-2 teaching visa at your local Korean consulate

7. Book Your Flight & Attend Orientation

   • Book a one-way flight to South Korea
   • Attend the EPIK/SMOE orientation — a 9-day, all-expenses-paid training program

8. Start Teaching in Seoul

   • After orientation, move into your apartment and begin your new teaching adventure!

📅 Timeline Notes

• SMOE hires in two main intakes: March and September
• Start preparing 6–9 months in advance of your intended intake
• Earlier applicants often get better placement opportunities

Applying early and preparing your documents in advance will give you the best chance of getting placed in Seoul — and make the whole process smoother from start to finish.

Next, let’s explore what it’s like to actually live and teach in Seoul.

Where Will You Be Placed?

One of the most exciting (and unpredictable) parts of the SMOE Program is where you’ll end up in Seoul. While you can request preferences, all placements are ultimately assigned by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, and they are random.

That said, every SMOE teacher is placed somewhere within Seoul’s 25 districts (gu’s) — each with its own character, vibe, and lifestyle.

🗺️ What to Expect

• You will not know your specific school or neighborhood until after final documents are submitted
• Most placements are in elementary schools
• You’ll be placed based on the needs of the district, not necessarily your preferences

🏙️ Types of Districts in Seoul

Here are a few examples of where you could be placed:

• Mapo-gu, Yongsan-gu, Seodaemun-gu – Central and popular with expats, near universities and cafes
• Gangseo-gu, Nowon-gu, Gwanak-gu – Residential areas with strong community feel and cheaper rent
• Dongdaemun-gu, Eunpyeong-gu, Songpa-gu – Mixed districts with parks, schools, and transit access
• Jongno-gu, Jung-gu – Historic and cultural hubs in the city center
• Seongbuk-gu, Dobong-gu, Yangcheon-gu – Quiet, local districts with family-oriented schools

Note: Gangnam is not part of SMOE — it has a separate office of education and hires through a different process.

🚇 No Matter Where You Are…

• You’ll be connected by Seoul’s world-class subway and bus network
• Most neighborhoods have everything you need within walking distance
• Even in less central districts, Seoul is never boring — every area has its own charm

The best approach is to stay flexible — every placement in Seoul comes with access to rich culture, excellent food, and endless ways to explore.

Next: Is SMOE the right program for you? Let’s find out.

Who Is SMOE Best For?

SMOE is one of the most competitive ESL programs in Korea — and for good reason. If you're dreaming of teaching in Seoul, this is your best route into the public school system.

Here’s who SMOE is a great fit for:

🏙️ City-Loving Teachers

• You want to live in Seoul, Korea’s capital and cultural epicenter
• You thrive in a fast-paced, urban environment
• You’re excited by museums, nightlife, shopping, festivals, and food scenes

🧑‍🏫 First-Time or Newer Teachers

• SMOE is beginner-friendly — no experience required
• The structured schedule and co-teaching setup make it ideal for new grads
• The 9-day orientation helps you hit the ground running

🎒 Teachers Who Enjoy Working with Kids

• Nearly all SMOE placements are at the elementary level (grades 3–6)
• If you enjoy working with young learners, this is a rewarding role
• Creativity, patience, and a sense of humor go a long way

📄 Organized, Prepared Applicants

• SMOE is competitive — applying early with all documents ready is key
• You’ll need to be flexible with placement, but organized with paperwork
• Teachers who are proactive and punctual tend to succeed

💬 Culturally Curious & Open-Minded

• Life in Korea can be very different from your home country
• If you're adaptable and curious, you'll love the experience
• Willingness to learn Korean (even a little!) helps a lot

If your dream is to live, work, and teach in one of Asia’s most exciting cities, SMOE might be the perfect match. Just bring your TEFL, your energy, and a flexible mindset.

Next: Let’s wrap up with some final thoughts and helpful links to guide your next steps.

Final Thoughts & Related Guides

Teaching through the SMOE Program is one of the most exciting ways to experience life in South Korea. You'll be in the middle of it all — ancient palaces, modern skyscrapers, spicy street food, buzzing cafés, and some of the most energetic classrooms in the country.

Yes, it's competitive. But if you're organized, enthusiastic, and serious about teaching, you have a real shot at landing a position.

Whether it’s your first job abroad or the next step in your TEFL career, SMOE gives you a chance to grow as a teacher, live in one of Asia’s most iconic cities, and connect with a global community of educators.

🔗 Helpful Resources

• 👉 EPIK Program Korea
• 👉 Teaching Jobs in South Korea

Ready to start your Seoul story? SMOE might just be the first chapter.